Professional English Program (PEP)

The courses in this program are more than just "Business English", and they are not just for "Business People". They are designed to equip professionals of all types with the tools they need to interact in English with others on a personal and professional level. The materials used emphasize cultural issues in the professional workplace, as well as different levels of discourse, networking, presentation skills and industry trends.

Participants choose between small international groups, private classes, or both. This variety allows for all types of learners to join a class that specifically fits their needs and learning styles.

In our group lessons, upper-intermediate and advanced level participants meet with our professional English "generalists." These instructors have specialized training and experience in teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) to professionals. They also have general experience working in American businesses and organizations in a wide variety of industries.

In our private (one-on-one) lessons, professionals of any level work with either a generalist or a specialist, depending upon the participant's needs and interests. Our specialists have life and work experience in a particular industry, in addition to having training and experience teaching ESL to professionals.

Participants enrolled in any of our Professional English Programs are assessed prior to their arrival through our pre-arrival questionnaire (which includes a self-assessment) and a telephone interview with our Professional Program Coordinator. With the information gathered, our Professional Program Coordinator chooses the best instructor(s) for the course and for the participant. This information is also given to the instructors so that they can customize the curriculum for the particular participants. This ensures efficiency and reduces the amount of time lost in the assessment and "getting-to-know-you" exercises usually necessary in the first lesson. Participants in our Professional group courses may need to take an additional written assessment before attending their first course.

Key Features:

• Flexibility: Participants may begin every Monday. Instructors adjust lesson focus to address individual needs.
• Diversity: Many kinds of programs for many types of learners. A diverse composition of students join the program.
• Customization: Instructors develop lesson plans specifically for the participants' interests.